I enjoy a good conversation. I enjoy talking (sometimes, I fear, too much). Sharing stories, expressing my opinions and communicating how I feel is my idea of a good time. Recently, as I was struggling with intense emotions, I pondered how much I appreciate it when someone truly listens. It means so much to me when someone is willing to take the time to hear what I have to say – especially when they patiently listen even when I struggle to find the “right” words, or when what I do express is less than cheerful. As I reflected upon what a comfort it is to my soul to have a good listener available, a significant section in the book Life Together by Dietrich Bonhoeffer came to mind. My heart was especially touched at the recollection of the precious phrase: “… (God) who is Himself the great listener.” This renowned theologian asserts in a segment of his writing which he labels the “Ministry of Listening” many valuable principles. Below you will find an excerpt from the book. I took ...
Insecurity can cause many problems. We can doubt that we are worthwhile or loveable. We can fear failure and deny our dreams and aspiration. We worry and feel weak. If we are unsure of our value and purpose we lose hope. If we don't truly know that we are deeply loved, we can even be irritable or behave badly. Perhaps this is a paltry example, but I was reminded how important it is to be confident and secure in the truth that we are loved in interactions with my cat Bridget. She is advancing in years now. I have had her since she was a kitten. My feline friend and I have been through alot together. She is quite affectionate and definitely does not fit the stereotype attributed to cats of being aloof. Over the years I have become very fond of Bridget. One of the concerns I had about being paired with a service dog, was that I might be required to relinquish my cat to accommodate the relationship with the new dog and his training. One day as I was fretting about this po...
Today is my beloved dog Tanner's birthday. It's a nice time to reflect on how special he is, and how grateful I am to have him as an important part of my life. It's also a good excuse to "brag" about him and share some favorite pictures: This is when we first met. I can hardly believe it has been three years already! Tanner won my heart right away He can be quite silly! Tanner loves to play... But he does his job when I need him - a very talented dog indeed! He closes the door Tanner turns on and off lights And we have even had the opportunity to teach children about service dogs. Tanner is excellent at many th...
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